The responses to the postings have been mixed, with many calling Madonna out for being insensitive and self-serving.

On Friday night, Madonna posted the following message on Facebook: "I'm sorry… I'm not comparing my self to anyone… I'm admiring and acknowledging there Rebel Hearts…This is neither a crime or an insult or racist! I also did it with Michael jaclson [sic] and frida khalo and marilyn Monroe… Am I saying I am them… NO… I'm saying they are Rebel Hearts too. And I didn't do it… My fans did… And I just re posted those photos… My fans aren't racist either. If they put me in the same category as these other people… Thank you. I'm very flattered and I hope one day to live up to 1 100th of what those people accomplished." – Madonna

On Saturday, Madonna shared more photos, including images of Princess Diana and John Lennon.

Madonna wrote, "I would like to thank all my fans for recreating my album cover with the Rebel Heart ribbon on the faces of so many Great Hero's. It shows that you are also celebrating and in admiration of these great freedom fighters!"

She added, "When I repost these images i am saying YES! These people are all Rebel Hearts in one way or another from Martin Luther King to Jesus to Nelson Mandela to John Lennon. YES! Lets celebrate them! The world needs more people like them."